A snow goose near the town of Elrose, about 320 km northwest of Regina, was found to have the “highly pathogenic” H5I bird flu strain (HPAI) from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The Ministry of Agriculture warns Saskatchewan poultry producers to follow biosecurity protocols given the threat of the disease. The HPAI has not detected commercial poultry or wild birds in Saskatchewan since 2007, according to the statement. The ministry described various safeguards for the swarms. This includes keeping them away from poultry flocks and their food and water supplies, limiting visits, and securing consultation with a veterinarian if some birds become ill. The ministry also stressed that smaller flocks are at higher risk of contracting HPAI due to the increased likelihood that these flocks will come in contact with wild birds. The release instructed small herd owners to restrain their birds indoors as much as possible to minimize the chance of contact. The risk of transmitting HPAI to humans is low, according to the government, but it still warns the public not to touch dead birds or other wild animals with their bare hands. Gloves, masks and eye protection must be used to handle dead birds. As more and more migratory birds return to Saskatchewan daily, the government is urging the public to be vigilant and report any sick or dead birds to the Department of the Environment. Possible scenarios to be mentioned could include: Clusters of two or more dead waterfowl (eg ducks, geese) or other waterfowl. • Dead birds of prey or scavengers of birds (eg crows, ravens, gulls). • Predators, aquatic animals or scavengers that appear to be sick. Large groups of dead birds (eg more than 50) of any kind.
